Portable Adjustable Desk System

ABSTRACT

A collapsible desk system including a first and second elongate members, a seat, a diagonal support member, a column, a pivot assembly, and a desk top is provided. The first and second elongate members have a common central pivot, and are pivotal relative to one another in a scissor-like manner. Each elongate member has a support member for resting on an underlying surface and an end. The seat is attached to the end of the first elongate member. The diagonal support member is cooperable with the first and second elongate members to selectively retain the elongate members in one or more crossed orientations. The column has upper and lower ends. The lower end is pivotally attached to the end of the second elongate member.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional Application No.62/123,502 filed Nov. 20, 2014, and is a continuation-in-part of PCTApplication No. PCT/US2015/061912 filed on Nov. 20, 2015, thedisclosures of which are incorporated in their entirety by referenceherein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to a portable desk system which may transitionbetween at least a collapsed position and expanded position.

BACKGROUND

Conventional office chairs and other chairs that are used with desks ina school or home setting may offer very little control for eitherposture or position relative to a surface of the desk. Further,conventional school desks offer no adjustability to correct therelationship of the chair to the desk surface as best suited for thesize of the person. Mobile lifestyles have expanded types of workspacesin comparison to past conventional settings. People seek comfort for thehours they spend working each day as well as portability. Typical desksmay not provide users with feasible transport or storage options.

SUMMARY

A collapsible desk system includes first and second elongate membershaving a common central pivot and being pivotal relative to one anotherin a scissor-like manner. Each of the first and second elongate membershas a first end for resting on an underlying surface and second end. Aseat is attached to the second end of the first elongate member. Asupport member is cooperable with the first and second elongate membersto selectively retain the elongate members in one or more crossedorientations. A column has upper and lower ends, the lower end pivotallyattached to the second end of the second elongate member. A desk top ispivotally attached to the upper end of the column. The members, seat,column, and desk top are arranged with one another to transition betweenat least a collapsed and an expanded position.

The system may include a knee support mounted to one of the elongatemembers. The system may include a swivel mechanism to rotate the desktop about a swivel axis normal to the desk top. The desk top may definea rectangular shape and the swivel mechanism may be configured to enablethe desk top to rotate ninety degrees. The swivel mechanism and thepivotal attachment of the desk top may cooperate to orient the desk topin an easel configuration in which the desk top is in a substantiallyupright position relative to the underlying surface. The desk top maypivot about a generally horizontal transverse axis relative to thecolumn. The support member may be a strut pivotally connected to one ofthe elongate members and engageable with the other of the elongatemembers at a plurality of spaced apart locations in order to vary thedesk height when the system is in the expanded position. The supportmember may be pivotally attached to one of the elongate members. Theseat may be pivotally attached to one of the elongate members.

The system may define a height of less than one foot relative to theunderlying surface when in the collapsed position. The desk top maydefine a side face having a groove extending about at least a portion ofa perimeter of the desk top with the groove sized to receive a firstfastener tab of an accessory. The groove may extend around substantiallyall of the perimeter of the desk top. The first fastener tab may definea mount cooperable with the accessory such that the accessory may rotatebetween at least a first and second position. The column may betelescopic to adjust a height of the desk relative to the underlyingsurface.

A lock mechanism may selectively engage the column in one or morepositions. A lock mechanism at the pivotal attachment of the desk top tothe column may selectively engage the desk top in one or more positions.A lock mechanism at the pivotal attachment of the column and the secondelongate member may selectively engage the column in one or morepositions. A front support member and a rear support member may rest onthe underlying surface and each of the members may extend along an axisparallel with a transverse axis of the system. At least one of theelongate members may include a pair of transversely spaced apartelongate members on opposed transverse sides of the other elongatemember. A knee support may be mounted to one of the elongate members. Anaccessory may be attached to a groove defined by a side face of the deskand pivotal between a cantilevered outboard position and an inboardposition partially extending over a portion of the desk. The accessorymay be selected from a group of a light device, a mobile phone dock, atablet dock, a cup holder, a utensil receptacle, a speaker, a snacktray, a makeup mirror, a cord organizer, a book holder, a filereceptacle, one or more clips, or an art supply holder.

A workspace system includes a desk top defining a top surface, a sidesurface, and a groove in the side surface extending about at least aportion of a perimeter of the desk top. The groove is sized to receiveone or more fasteners of one or more corresponding components such thatthe one or more components do not extend over the desk top surface in atleast a first position. The system may include a support structuresupporting the desk top thereon with a lower portion for resting on anunderlying surface and an upper portion. The system may include a seatassembly mounted to the upper portion of the support structure andhaving a seat and knee support. The support structure is arranged withthe desk top to position a user proximate the top surface. The seat orknee support may be sized for removable covers to be attached thereto.The components may be selected from a group of a light device, a mobilephone dock, a tablet dock, a cup holder, a utensil receptacle, aspeaker, a snack tray, a makeup mirror, a cord organizer, a book holder,a file receptacle, one or more clips, or an art supply holder. The oneor more corresponding components may be pivotally mounted to the one ormore fasteners such that the one or more corresponding accessories maypivot to extend over the top surface in a second position.

A reconfigurable desk system includes a support structure, a column, adesk top, a swivel mechanism, and a seat assembly. The support structurehas first and second elongate members for at least partially resting onan underlying surface. The column has a first end mounted to one of theelongate members and a second end. The desk top is pivotally mounted tothe column at a pivot assembly. The swivel mechanism is cooperable withthe desk top to rotate the desk top about an axis normal thereto. Theseat assembly is mounted to the support structure to position a userproximate the desk top. The pivot assembly and swivel mechanism arearranged with one another such that the desk may transition between alandscape configuration in which the desk is oriented in a substantiallyhorizontal position relative to the underlying surface and an easelconfiguration in which the desk is oriented in a substantially uprightposition relative to the underlying surface. A knee support may bemounted to one of the elongate members and arranged with the seatassembly such that a posture of a user positioned thereon is defined bya substantially upright seated position optimal for spinal health of theuser. The desk top may define a side face extending about a perimeterthereof and have a groove sized to receive a fastener tab of anaccessory. An accessory may be attached at the groove and pivotalbetween at least first and second positions. The column may be pivotallymounted to one of the elongate members to adjust a location of the desktop relative to the seat assembly.

A collapsible desk system includes first and second elongate members, aseat, a diagonal support member, a column, a pivot assembly, and a desktop. The first and second elongate members have a common central pivot,and are pivotal relative to one another in a scissor-like manner. Eachelongate member has a support member for resting on an underlyingsurface and an end. The seat is attached to the end of the firstelongate member. The diagonal support member is cooperable with thefirst and second elongate members to selectively retain the elongatemembers in one or more crossed orientations. The column has upper andlower ends. The lower end is pivotally attached to the end of the secondelongate member. The pivot assembly is mounted to the upper end of thecolumn, includes a main component having a first extension with anarcuate cutout, and includes a lock mechanism comprising a pin forextension in to and retraction out of the arcuate cutout. The desk topis attached to the pivot assembly for rotational transition between alandscape position and an easel configuration. The elongate members, theseat, the column, and the desk top are arranged with one another totransition between at least a collapsed configuration and an expandedconfiguration. Engagement of the lock mechanism retains the pin withinthe arcuate cutout and disengagement of the pin retracts the pin fromwithin the arcuate cutout so that the desk top may pivot between thecollapsed configuration and the expanded configuration. The arcuatecutout may be defined by circular-shaped cutouts open to one another andextending in an arc relative to a center of a circular portion of thefirst extension. The lock mechanism may further include a knob coupledto a transfer assembly. The transfer assembly may be mechanically linkedto a first slider and a second slider such that rotation of the knobmoves the pin extending from one of the first slider and the secondslider in to or out of the arcuate cutout. The main component mayfurther include one or more arc-shaped openings for a fastener to extendtherethrough to rotatably secure the main component to the desk top. Thearc-shaped openings may be located upon the main component to facilitaterotation of the desk top independent of the main component. The desksystem may further include an engagement mechanism having a T-knob. Abase portion of the main component may define a first notch and a secondnotch. The desk top and the main component may be arranged with oneanother so the desk top is oriented in the landscape position when theT-knob is inserted into the first notch and so the desk top is orientedin the easel position when the T-knob is inserted into the second notch.The desk system may further include a pair of wheel assemblies. Each ofthe pair of wheel assemblies may be mounted for rotation to one of thesupport members of the first and second elongate members. Each of thepair of wheel assemblies may include a base component for securing toone of the support members, an intermediate component including a baseportion having flaps, and a wheel mounted to the intermediate componentfor rotation upon an underlying surface. Each of the flaps may include alip for gripping an edge of the base component to secure theintermediate component to the base component.

A pivot assembly for a reconfigurable desk includes a main component anda lock mechanism. The main component includes a base portion forsecuring to an underside of a desk top for rotation of the desk top anda pair of extensions each extending from the base portion and eachincluding a circular portion defining an arcuate channel having circularcutouts open to one another. The lock mechanism includes a moveable pinfor insertion in to and retraction out of the arcuate channel to retainthe pivot assembly in at least first and second positions. The maincomponent and the lock mechanism are arranged with a column assembly ofthe reconfigurable desk such that retention of the pivot assembly in thefirst position orients the desk top in a horizontal orientation relativeto an underlying surface and retention of the pivot assembly in thesecond position orients the desk top in a substantially uprightorientation relative to the underlying surface. The base portion of themain component may define first and second notches for receiving aT-knob of an engagement mechanism mounted to the desk top to retain thedesk top in one of a landscape position and an easel position. The lockmechanism may further include a first slider, a second slider, and aspring disposed therebetween. The moveable pin may extend from one ofthe first slider and the second slider and the spring may be biased topush the moveable pin in to the arcuate channel. The lock mechanism mayfurther include a knob mechanically linked to a transfer assembly. Thetransfer assembly may be mechanically linked to the first slider and thesecond slider such that rotation of the knob directs lateral translationof the first slider and the second slider to insert or retract themoveable pin from the arcuate channel. The desk top may define a topsurface, a side surface, and a groove in the side surface extendingabout at least a portion of a perimeter of the desk top sized to receiveone or more fasteners of one or more corresponding components such thatthe one or more components do not extend over the top surface in atleast an upright position. A base portion of the main component maydefine one or more arc-shaped openings. Each of the one or morearc-shaped openings may be sized for a fastener to extend therethroughto rotatably secure the desk top to the main component such that thedesk top may rotate independent of the main component.

A reconfigurable desk system includes a support structure, a column, apivot assembly, a seat assembly, and first and second wheel assemblies.The support structure has first and second elongate members for at leastpartially resting upon an underlying surface. The column has a first endmounted to one of the first and second elongate members and a secondend. The pivot assembly is mounted to the column, cooperable with a desktop to rotate the desk top about an axis normal thereto, and arrangedwith the desk top to transition the desk top between a substantiallyhorizontal position relative to the underlying surface and asubstantially upright position relative to the underlying surface. Theseat assembly is mounted to the support structure to position a userproximate the desk top. Each of the first and second wheel assemblies ismounted to a separate end of one of the first and second elongatemembers for rotation upon the underlying surface. Each of the first andsecond wheel assemblies may further include a base component, a firstintermediate component, a second intermediate component, a thirdintermediate component, a wheel, and a cap. The base component may besized for mounting to the separate end of one of the first and secondelongate members. The first intermediate component may define athrough-hole sized for receiving a portion of the base component. Thesecond intermediate component may include a base portion for insertionwithin the through-hole of the first intermediate component and includea first ledge. The third intermediate component may include a secondledge aligned with the first ledge to define a channel therebetween. Thewheel may be secured to the third intermediate component and sized fordisposal within the channel. The cap may have one or more mounts securedto the second intermediate component such that the third intermediatecomponent and the wheel may rotate freely as a single component aboutthe mounts. Each of the first and second wheel assemblies may furtherinclude one or more rollers each mounted for rotation about one of theone or more mounts and extending from the cap for contact with an innersurface of the third intermediate component such that the thirdintermediate component freely rotates upon the rollers. The base portionof the second intermediate component may include flaps each having a lipfor gripping an edge of the base component to secure the secondintermediate component to the base component. The desk top may define atop surface, a side surface, and a groove in the side surface extendingabout at least a portion of a perimeter of the desk top sized to receiveone or more fasteners of one or more corresponding components such thatthe one or more components do not extend over the top surface in atleast an upright position. Each of the first and second wheel assembliesmay be arranged with the first and second elongate members so that thefirst and second wheel assemblies rotate upon the underlying surfacewhen a user grasps and pulls the desk system by one of the first andsecond elongate members.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a first embodiment of a novel seatand desk system.

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the novel system set forth in FIG.1.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the novel system set forth in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a back view of the novel system set forth in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5a is a schematic view of a novel system shown in the open orexpanded position.

FIG. 5b is a schematic view of the embodiment in FIG. 5a shown in thecollapsed or transport position.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4 shown in thecollapsed or transport position.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the novel desk andseat system shown in the open or expanded position with accessoriesattached thereto.

FIG. 8 is another embodiment shown in the open or expanded position.

FIG. 9a is a front perspective view of an example of a desk system.

FIG. 9b is a detailed view of a portion of the desk system of FIG. 9aincluding a work lock-out system.

FIG. 9c is a detailed view of a portion of the desk system of FIG. 9aincluding a main arm dual lock-out system

FIG. 9d is a detailed view of a portion of the desk system of FIG. 9aincluding a novel slot system for holding and retaining variousaccessories.

FIG. 9e is a partially exploded view of a portion of the desk system ofFIG. 9a showing various components thereof.

FIG. 9f is a side perspective view of the desk system of FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 9g is a partial perspective view of the desk system of FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 9h shows a portion of the desk system of FIG. 9a including a slotsystem for attaching accessories.

FIG. 9i shows the desk system of FIG. 9a in a folded or collapsedposition.

FIG. 9j shows partial perspective views of the desk system of FIG. 9aincluding a view showing a user positioned thereon.

FIG. 10 is an underside perspective view of a pivot assembly for usewith a reconfigurable desk system showing various components ofmechanisms for adjusting and locking a work surface in a desiredposition relative to a base of a desk.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view, in cross-section, of the pivot assemblyand desk of FIG. 10 showing details of the adjustable and lockingpositions.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a desk system in a folded orcollapsed position.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an example of a desk system shown in anexpanded position.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the desk system of FIG. 13 shown in aneasel position.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the desk system of FIG. 13 shown in acollapsed position.

FIG. 16 is a side view of an example of an accessory fastener formounting to a groove defined by a desk top.

FIG. 17 is a side view, in cross-section, of an example of an accessoryfastener mounted to a desk top having a groove sized to receive theaccessory fastener.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an example of a desk system shown within a collapsed position with accessories folded thereon.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an example of a desk system includingwheel assemblies and shown in an expanded configuration.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the desk system of FIG. 19 shown in acollapsed position.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an example of one of the wheelassemblies of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22a is a perspective exploded view of the wheel assembly of FIG.21.

FIG. 22b is a side view, in cross-section, of an example of a wheel andan intermediate component of the wheel assembly of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a portion of the desk system of FIG. 19shown in a first position.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the portion of the desk system of FIG.23 shown in a second position.

FIG. 25 is a perspective exploded view of the portion of the desk systemof FIG. 23.

FIG. 26 is a perspective exploded view of an example of a pivot assemblyof the desk system of FIG. 19.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an example of a component of the pivotassembly of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an example of a lock mechanism of thedesk system of FIG. 19 shown in a first position.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the lock mechanism of FIG. 28 shown ina second position.

FIG. 30 is a bottom plan view of a portion of the desk system of FIG. 19showing a desk top in a landscape position.

FIG. 31 is a bottom plan view of the portion of the desk system of FIG.30 showing the desk top in an easel position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein. It is to beunderstood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely examplesand other embodiments can take various and alternative forms. Thefigures are not necessarily to scale; some features could be exaggeratedor minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore,specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not tobe interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis forteaching one skilled in the art to variously employ embodiments of thepresent disclosure. As those of ordinary skill in the art willunderstand, various features illustrated and described with reference toany one of the figures can be combined with features illustrated in oneor more other figures to produce embodiments that are not explicitlyillustrated or described. The combinations of features illustratedprovide representative embodiments for typical applications. Variouscombinations and modifications of the features consistent with theteachings of this disclosure, however, could be desired for particularapplications or implementations.

Reference is first made to FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings whichillustrate perspective views of the front and back of an example of adesk system, referred to generally as a desk system 10 herein.Components of the desk system 10 are arranged with one another such thatthe desk system 10 may transition between multiple configurations andpositions. For example, the desk system 10 may transition between atleast a collapsed or folded position and an expanded or open position.The desk system 10 may include an integrated seating and work surfacethat can easily fold for simple and convenient storage and easytransport. When assembled, the system includes an adjustable work deskwith an integrated clip system that allows for a variety of desk andwork accessories to be attached to the edge of the work surface leavingthe entire work surface clear. These accessories may provide, forexample, storage, lighting, entertainment, and other useful devices.

In one example of the desk system 10, there is no tool assembly requiredand as previously indicated it can readily be folded flat for easystorage and portability and quickly opened and adjusted to a desiredposition or configuration. The desk system may include a top with achannel cut and a plastic trap which permits insertion and attachment ofthe various accessories. The desk system 10 may provide a customworkplace without sacrificing desk space. Adjustability of the desksystem 10 may accommodate a variety of different sized users and maypositively influence a user's posture while seated.

While several modifications will be illustrated and described the commonelements will be given the same numerals. It is noted that variouselements will change in detail but their functions will not.

Continuing to refer to FIGS. 1 and 2, the desk system 10 includes a desktop 12 supported by columns consisting of inner and outer columns 14,16. The inner column 14 is connected to a desk top 12 by a pivotassembly 18 so the desk top 12 can be pivoted relative to the innercolumn 14. The inner column 14 may have an upper end and the outercolumn 16 may have a lower end. The inner column 14 and the outer column16 may have a telescoping relationship. Various shapes may be suitablefor the desk top 12. For example, the desk top 12 may define arectangular or square shape. A configuration of the desk top in FIG. 1may be referred to as a landscape configuration herein. A work surfacelock out mechanism 62 (see FIG. 9b ) may be provided to lock the desktop 12 in position when the assembly is moved to one or more positionsincluding an open position. For example, the lock out mechanism 62 maybe selectively engaged to orient the desk top 12 in the one or morepositions. It is contemplated that other suitable lock mechanisms may beavailable to secure the desk top 12 and inner column 14 in a position.

The inner and outer columns 14, 16 may define openings (not shown) for apin 20 to extend therethrough and retain the columns 14, 16 in thedesired position. For example, the desk top 12 may translate to adjust adistance between an underlying surface and the desk top 12 and/or toadjust a distance between the underlying surface and a seat assembly 26.

A pivot assembly 24 assists in enabling pivotal movement of the outercolumn 16 and a knee support assembly 22. The knee support assembly 22may include one or more knee pads to assist in supporting a userpositioned adjacent the desk top 12. It is contemplated that the kneesupport assembly 22 may be a single component or may include more thanone component, such as multiple knee pads.

We turn now to the seat assembly 26 which is connected to a seat 28. Theseat 28 is connected to a front support base 30 through a dual columnassembly 32. The dual column assembly 32 may include a first elongatemember 33. The first elongate member 33 may have a first end for restingon the underlying surface and a second end. The dual column assembly 32may include two first elongate members 33 spaced apart from one another.The seat 28 may be mounted to the dual column assembly 32 for pivotalmovement. For example, the seat 28 may be mounted to the second end ofthe first elongate member such that when the desk system 10 is orientedin a collapsed position (further described below) the seat 28 may pivotto assist in providing a more compact configuration of the desk system.

The knee support assembly 22 may be connected to a rear support base 34through a column assembly 36. The seat assembly 26 may include a secondelongate member 37. The second elongate member 37 may include a firstend for resting on the underlying surface and a second end. The seatassembly 26 may include two second elongate members 37. The firstelongate member 33 and the second elongate member 37 may share a commonpivot and be pivotable relative to one another in a scissor-like manner.For example, the first elongate member 33 and the second elongate member37 may share a pivot 39.

To permit pivotal movement of the seat assembly 26 and the knee supportassembly 22 there is provided a pivot assembly 38. For example, thepivot assembly 38 may include a link 42. To facilitate positioning ofthe seat assembly 26 relative to the knee support assembly 22 a supportplate 40 may be secured between braces 36 a and 36 b of the columnassembly 36. The link 42 may be provided between a plate 40 and the seatassembly 26. One end of the link 42 may be pivotally connected to theseat assembly 26 at a pivot 44. The link 42 may operate as a supportmember and be cooperable with the first elongate member 33 and thesecond elongate member 37 to selectively retain the elongate members inone or more crossed orientations. The other end of link 42 may have atransversely extended rod 46 connected thereto which may be adjustablypositioned between slots in plate 40 to receive rod 46 in variouspositions. For example, the link 42 may be a strut pivotally connectedto one of the elongate members and engageable with the other of theelongate members at one or more spaced apart locations in order to varya height of components of the desk system 10. The link 42 may also bepivotally attached to one of the elongate members.

FIGS. 3 and 4 provide a front view and a back view of the desk system10. The components thereof are appropriately numbered.

The first and second elongate members 33, 37, the seat 28, the inner andouter columns 14, 16, and the desk top 12 may be arranged with oneanother to transition between at least a collapsed position and anexpanded position. For example, FIG. 5a is a schematic view of the desksystem 10 in the expanded position and FIG. 5b is a schematic view ofthe desk system 10 in the collapsed position. The desk system may definea height of less than one foot relative to the underlying surface whenin the collapsed position.

FIG. 6 shows the desk system 10 in the collapsed position for storage ortransport. For example, the desk system 10 may fit under a user's bed orwithin a user's closet when in the collapsed position. As anotherexample, the desk system 10 may be more conveniently transportable whenin the collapsed position in comparison with the expanded position.

FIG. 7 shows another example of an embodiment of the desk system 10oriented in the expanded position. In this example, the knee supportassembly 22 is shown as a single component mounted to the secondelongate member 37.

Shown attached to the desk top 12 are various accessories including afan 54, speakers 56, and a lighting system 58. Examples of otheraccessories which may be removably attached to the desk top 12 include,but are not limited to, a mobile phone dock, a tablet dock, a cupholder, a utensil receptacle, a speaker, a snack tray, a makeup mirror,a cord organizer, a book holder, a file receptacle, one or more clips,or an art supply holder. The seat 28 and the knee pads of the kneesupport assembly 22 are of a different design than FIGS. 1 through 4 butthe components thereof are otherwise similar.

FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment showing slightly different designsof various accessories.

FIG. 9a illustrates another embodiment that includes similar componentsas the other embodiments but takes slightly different shapes and sizesthat indicate the wide variations that are possible involvingapplicant's novel concepts.

FIG. 9b is a detailed view of the open work surface lock-out mechanism62 for locking the work surface in a position during use.

FIG. 9c shows the main arm dual lock-out system 60 for locking the maincolumn in position during use.

FIGS. 9d and 9h illustrate the novel slot system for attaching variousaccessories. For example, the desk top 12 may define a side face 67extending about a perimeter thereof. The side face 67 may have a groove69 extending about at least a portion of the perimeter of the desk top12. In another example, the groove 69 may extend around substantiallyall of the perimeter of the desk top 12. The groove 69 may be sized toreceive a fastener tab of one of the accessories. The fastener tab maybe mounted to the respective accessory for pivotal movement. Forexample, the pivotal relationship between the fastener tab andrespective accessory may be such that the accessory may pivot between atleast a first position in which the accessory does not extend over aportion of the desk top 12 and a second position in which the accessoryextends over a portion or contacts the desk top 12. For example, in thecollapsed position the accessory may extend over and contact the desktop 12 for storage or transport purposes.

FIG. 9e shows an exploded view of various examples of components of thedesk system 10.

FIG. 9f is a side perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 9g includes partial perspective views of the desk system 10including a view having a user positioned thereon. In this example, aposture of the user positioned on the desk system 10 may be defined by asubstantially upright seated position optimal for spinal health of theuser.

FIG. 9h is a partial perspective view showing a side portion of the desktop 12.

FIG. 9i is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9a shownpartially collapsed.

FIG. 9j is a partial perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9a.

FIGS. 10 and 11 show an example of a swivel mechanism which may assistin rotating the desk top 12 relative to the supporting structure andabout an axis normal to the desk top 12. Turning now to FIG. 10 there isillustrated an enlarged perspective view of the pivot assembly 18. It isto be noted that the pivot assembly 24 is similar to the pivot assembly18.

In FIG. 10 there is shown the inner column 14 connected to a shaft 70which is rotatably mounted. Connected to one end of the shaft 70 is atoothed wheel 72 which engages a mating toothed member 74. A handle 76is connected to a shaft 78 that is threaded into a knob 80 in a fixedposition. The handle 76 may be turned counter clockwise and the toothedwheel 72 may be loosened and disengaged from the toothed member 74 suchthat the column 14 is free to rotate and move the desk top 12 to adesired angled position. The handle 76 may be turned clockwise to lockthe toothed wheel 72 and the toothed member 74 together and lock thedesk top 12 in a fixed position.

The pivot assembly 24 for permitting movement of the column 16 issimilarly designed to adjust or retain the column assembly in a fixedposition.

The desk top 12 may be rotated relative to an axis normal to the desktop 12. For example, the desk top 12 may rotate between 90 and 180degrees. Bottom surface projections 82 of the desk top 12 may fit intocorresponding openings that are formed in a plate to which is securedtoothed member 74. In a normal fixed position, a first plate 86 and asecond plate 81 may be retained in their relationship by the knob 90 towhich is connected a shaft (not shown) which when loosened permitsdisengagement of the projections 82 from the openings 84 which permitsrotation of the desk top 12. When the plates 81, 86 are in theirrelocated position the knob 90 may be tightened to retain the plates inthe new position.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the desk system 10 shown in a collapsedposition.

FIGS. 13 through 15 show another example of the desk system 10. FIG. 13shows the desk system 10 in the expanded position with the desk top inthe landscape configuration and various accessories mounted thereto.FIG. 14 shows the desk system 10 in an easel configuration in which thedesk top 12 is oriented in a substantially upright position relative tothe underlying surface. Artists are one example of a type of user whichmay utilize the easel configuration. In this configuration, accessories,such as a light, speakers, and a utensil receptacle may be mounted tothe desk top 12 via the groove 69 and respective fastener. FIG. 15 showsthe desk system 10 in the collapsed position for transport or storage.

FIGS. 16 and 17 show an example of an accessory fastener, referred togenerally as an accessory fastener 100 herein. The accessory fastener100 may include a mount 104, a first fastener tab 108, and a secondfastener tab 110. The accessory fastener 100 may be mounted to a desktop, such as the desk top 12. For example, the first fastener tab 108may be sized for disposal within a groove, such as the groove 68 of thedesk top 12. The second fastener tab 110 may be arranged with the firstfastener tab 108 to assist in orienting the accessory fastener 100relative to the desk top 12. An accessory, such as an accessory 112 maybe mounted to the accessory fastener 100 at, for example, the mount 104.The mount 104 may be, for example, a nub or pin sized for receptionwithin the accessory 112 such that the accessory 112 may rotate about anaxis in line with the mount 104. For example, FIG. 17 shows an examplein which the accessory 112 may rotate between a position in which theaccessory 112 does not extend over a portion of the desk top 12 to aposition in which the accessory 112 extends over the desk top 12. FIG.18 shows an example in which multiple accessories are folded onto thedesk top 12 where the desk system 10 is in the collapsed position.

The desk systems described above provide users with a workspace optionin which a stored desk system may be easily opened as a fully assembledproduct and adjust to fit their body. Transition between the variouspositions and configurations does not require additional parts or tools.Accessories may attach to the desk simply and allow the user tocustomize their workspace according to work needs and style and withoutobstructing work space of the desk top. The accessories may also foldagainst the desk top storage. Additionally, the seat and knee supportsmay positively influence the user's posture while working at the deskand may be adjusted to accommodate various user body types and sizes.

FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate another example of a desk system referred togenerally as a desk system 200. The desk system 200 may be reconfiguredbetween expanded and collapsed configurations as described above. InFIG. 19, the desk system is shown in the expanded configuration and inFIG. 20 the desk system 200 is shown in the collapsed configuration. Thedesk system 200 includes a desk top 206 mounted for pivotal movement toa column assembly 208. For example, the desk top 206 may be mounted tothe column assembly 208 by a pivot assembly (the pivot assembly shown inFIGS. 23 through 26). The pivot assembly may assist in enabling the desktop 206 to transition between multiple positions such as a landscapeposition and an easel position as further described below. The desk top206 defines a top surface, a side surface, and a groove in the sidesurface extending about at least a portion of a perimeter of the desktop sized to receive one or more fasteners of one or more correspondingcomponents such that the one or more components do not extend over thetop surface of the desk top 206 in at least a first position.

The column assembly 208 may be mounted to a first elongate member 214 ora second elongate member 216. The first elongate member 214 and thesecond elongate member 216 may be arranged with one another for ascissor-type movement to assist in transitioning the desk system 200between the expanded configuration and the collapsed configuration. Aknee support assembly and a seat assembly may be mounted to one or bothof the elongate members to support a user. For example, the knee supportassembly may include a first knee support 220 and a second knee support222. The seat assembly may include a seat 226 mounted to the secondelongate member 216. The seat 226 may be adjustable to accommodatevarious sizes of users to position the user in a comfortable positionrelative to the desk top 206. A diagonal support member 228 may extendbetween the first elongate member 214 and the second elongate member 216to retain the elongate members in position relative to one another.

A first support member 240 extends from the first elongate member 214and a second support member 242 extends from the second elongate member216. The first support member 240 and the second support member 242 arefor resting upon an underlying surface.

One or more wheel assemblies may be mounted to ends of one or both ofthe support members for rotation. For example, a first wheel assembly250 and a second wheel assembly 252 may be mounted at opposing ends ofthe second support member 242. The wheel assemblies may be mounted tothe second support member 242 to assist a user in moving the desk system200. For example, when the desk system 200 is in the collapsedconfiguration, a user may grasp the first support member 240 to pull orpush the desk system 200 while the wheel assemblies rotate upon anunderlying surface. When the desk system 200 is in the expandedconfiguration, a user may grasp the seat 226 or other portion of thedesk system 200 to orient the desk system 200 at an angle relative to anunderlying surface and such that the only the wheel assemblies arecontacting the underlying surface for desk system 200 movement. Whilethe wheel assemblies are shown mounted to the second support member 242in FIGS. 19 and 20, it is contemplated that the wheel assemblies may bemounted to the first support member 240 so that a user may grasp thesecond support member 242 to pull the desk system 200 along anunderlying surface.

FIGS. 21 through 22 b show further detail of the wheel assemblies. WhileFIGS. 21, 22 a, and 22 b refer to the first wheel assembly 250, it is tobe understood that the second wheel assembly 252 may include similarcomponents. The first wheel assembly 250 includes components arrangedwith one another to facilitate rotation of a wheel. For example, thefirst wheel assembly 250 includes a base component 260, a firstintermediate component 262, a second intermediate component 264, a wheel266, a third intermediate component 268, and a cap 270.

The base component 260 is sized for securing to one of the ends of thefirst support member 240 or the second support member 242. The firstintermediate component 262 includes a through-hole sized for receiving aportion of the base component 260 for securing the first intermediatecomponent 262 thereto. The second intermediate component 264 includes abase portion 272 for insertion within the through-hole of the firstintermediate component 262 to secure the first intermediate component262 and the second intermediate component 264 to one another. Whileshown as separate components in FIGS. 21 and 22 a, it is contemplatedthat the first intermediate component 262 and the second intermediatecomponent 264 may be formed as a single component.

The second intermediate component 264 may include flaps to assist insecurement to the base component 260. For example, the secondintermediate component 264 may include flaps 275 having a lip forgripping an edge of the base component 260 when the second intermediatecomponent 264 is mounted to the base component 260. The secondintermediate component 264 includes a first ledge 276 and the thirdintermediate component 268 includes a second ledge 278. When the secondintermediate component 264 and the third intermediate component 268 aremounted to one another the first ledge 276 and the second ledge 278 arealigned to define a channel sized to receive a portion of the wheel 266.

FIG. 22b shows an example of a mechanical relationship between the wheel266 and the third intermediate component 268. The wheel 266 may includea plurality of extensions 280 radially spaced about an inner surface ofthe wheel 266. A base portion 282 of the third intermediate component268 includes a plurality of grooves 284 radially spaced about the baseportion 282. The plurality of extensions 280 and the plurality ofgrooves 284 are sized for engagement to secure the wheel 266 and thethird intermediate component 268 to one another.

The cap 270 may be fixed to the second intermediate component 264 suchthat the wheel 266 and the third intermediate component 268 may rotate.For example, the cap 270 may include cylinder-shaped mounts 286 forinsertion within cylinder-shaped cavities of receivers 288 extendingfrom the second intermediate component 264. In one example, the mounts286 and the receivers 288 may be sized relative to one another tofacilitate a snap-fit. In another example, the mounts 286 and thereceivers 288 may have a non-cylindrical shape. The mounts 286 and thereceivers 288 may be secured to one another via other methods, such asvia an adhesive.

One or more rollers 290 may be mounted for rotation to the cap 270. Forexample, each of the one or more rollers 290 may be mounted about one ofthe mounts 286. The one or more rollers 290 extend into the channel whenthe cap 270 is mounted to the second intermediate component 264 tocontact an inner surface of the third intermediate component 268 so thatthe third intermediate component 268 and the wheel 266 may rotate uponthe one or more rollers 290.

FIGS. 23 and 24 show the desk top 206 of the desk system 200 in firstand second positions. In FIG. 23, the desk top 206 is oriented in alandscape position. In FIG. 24, the desk top 206 is oriented in an easelposition. A pivot assembly 294 assists in facilitating transition of thedesk top 206 between the multiple positions such as the landscapeposition and the easel position. For example, the pivot assembly 294 mayoperate to adjust an angle of the desk top 206 relative to an underlyingsurface to provide multiple work surface options for a user.

The pivot assembly 294 is mounted to an inner column 308 of the columnassembly 208. The inner column 308 may have a telescoping relationshipwith an outer column 310 of the column assembly 208 to raise and lowerthe desk top 206. A swivel mechanism may rotate the desk top 206 aboutan axis normal to the desk top 206.

FIGS. 25 and 26 show exploded views of portions of the desk system 200.The pivot assembly 294 may include a main component 320 and anadjustable lock mechanism 322 arranged with one another to facilitateadjustment of an angle of the desk top 206 relative to a user andrelative to an underlying surface. An engagement mechanism 324 operateswith the main component 320 to retain the desk top 206 in the landscapeposition or the easel position as further described below. A plate 326is arranged with a lower surface of the desk top 206 to conceal aportion of the engagement mechanism 324 while providing access to anactuator to engage and disengage the engagement mechanism 324 with thedesk top 206.

FIG. 27 is a detailed perspective view of the main component 320. Themain component 320 includes a first extension 330 and a second extension332. Each of the first extension 330 and the second extension 332 extendfrom a base portion 336. Each of the first extension 330 and the secondextension 332 define an arcuate cutout 338. The arcuate cutout 338 mayinclude a plurality of circular-shaped cutouts open to one another. Thecircular-shaped cutouts are sized to receive a pin of the lock mechanism322. In one example, the arcuate cutout 338 may extend in an arc betweenzero and ninety-degrees relative to a center point of a circular portionof the first extension 330 and a center point of a circular portion ofthe second extension 332. The circular-shaped cutouts assist inproviding various angled configurations for the desk top 206 relative toa user positioned on the seat 226 as further described herein. Thenumber of angled configurations available is based on the numbercircular-shaped cutouts and the extension of the arcuate cutout 338.

The base portion 336 may define one or more openings 340 each extendingin an arc of various degrees relative to a center point of the baseportion 336. The one or more openings 340 provide space for fasteners torotatably secure the main component 320 to the desk top 206. The maincomponent 320 and the desk top 206 are arranged with one another so thatthe desk top 206 may rotate upon the main component 320 as guided by arelationship between the fasteners and the one or more openings 340. Thebase portion 336 may define one or more notches 342 spaced from oneanother to assist in facilitating engagement of the desk top 206 whenrotated between positions. The base portion 336 may include cutouts tominimize a weight of material while also providing structural rigidityby having one or more tabs 344 radially spaced from one another.

FIGS. 28 and 29 show further detail of the main component 320 and thelock mechanism 322. The lock mechanism 322 may include a knob 350, atransfer assembly 352, a first slider 354, and a second slider 356. Theknob 350 is mechanically linked to the transfer assembly 352 to directrotation thereof. A first pin 358 is mounted to the first slider 354 anda second pin 360 is mounted to the second slider 356.

The transfer assembly 352 is mechanically linked to the first slider 354and the second slider 356 to direct lateral translation of the slidersbetween multiple positions when the knob 350 rotates the transferassembly 352. For example, the sliders may laterally translate to insertand retract the pins within the respective adjacent arcuate cutout 338to facilitate transition between an engaged and a disengaged position ofthe pins. Each of the pins may include a spherical-shaped end tofacilitate easier insertion and retraction of the pins within thearcuate cutout 338 in comparison to a cylinder-shaped end.

A spring 366 may be disposed between the first slider 354 and the secondslider 356 to bias retention of the sliders toward the engaged position.Rotation of the knob 350 directs the sliders to translate in a directionopposite the bias of the spring 366.

FIGS. 30 and 31 are bottom plan views of a portion of the desk system200 showing the desk top 206 in the landscape position and the easelposition. In the landscape position as shown in FIG. 30 and the easelposition shown in FIG. 31, the engagement mechanism 324 may engage withthe main component 320. For example, the engagement mechanism 324includes a T-knob 380 for engaging with the main component 320 via oneof the notches 342. The T-knob 380 may include a handle for a user topull the T-knob 380 out of the respective notch 342. Springs may beincluded within the engagement mechanism 324 to bias movement of theT-knob 380 toward engagement with the main component 320. Once theT-knob 380 is pulled out of the notch 342, the desk top 206 may berotated for engagement with the other of the notches 342 to orient thedesk top in either the landscape or the easel position.

While various embodiments are described above, it is not intended thatthese embodiments describe all possible forms encompassed by the claims.The words used in the specification are words of description rather thanlimitation, and it is understood that various changes can be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Aspreviously described, the features of various embodiments can becombined to form further embodiments of the disclosure that may not beexplicitly described or illustrated. While various embodiments couldhave been described as providing advantages or being preferred overother embodiments or prior art implementations with respect to one ormore desired characteristics, those of ordinary skill in the artrecognize that one or more features or characteristics can becompromised to achieve desired overall system attributes, which dependon the specific application and implementation. These attributes caninclude, but are not limited to marketability, appearance, consistency,robustness, customer acceptability, reliability, accuracy, etc. As such,embodiments described as less desirable than other embodiments or priorart implementations with respect to one or more characteristics are notoutside the scope of the disclosure and can be desirable for particularapplications.

What is claimed is:
 1. A collapsible desk system comprising: first andsecond elongate members having a common central pivot, and being pivotalrelative to one another in a scissor-like manner, and each elongatemember having a support member for resting on an underlying surface andan end; a seat attached to the end of the first elongate member; adiagonal support member cooperable with the first and second elongatemembers to selectively retain the elongate members in one or morecrossed orientations; a column having upper and lower ends, the lowerend pivotally attached to the end of the second elongate member; a pivotassembly mounted to the upper end of the column, including a maincomponent having a first extension with an arcuate cutout, and includinga lock mechanism comprising a pin for extension in to and retraction outof the arcuate cutout; and a desk top attached to the pivot assembly forrotational transition between a landscape position and an easelposition, wherein the elongate members, the seat, the column, and thedesk top are arranged with one another to transition between at least acollapsed configuration and an expanded configuration, and whereinengagement of the lock mechanism retains the pin within the arcuatecutout and disengagement of the pin retracts the pin from within thearcuate cutout so that the desk top may pivot between the collapsedconfiguration and the expanded configuration.
 2. The desk system ofclaim 1, wherein the arcuate cutout is defined by circular-shapedcutouts open to one another and extending in an arc relative to a centerof a circular portion of the first extension.
 3. The desk system ofclaim 1, wherein the lock mechanism further comprises a knob coupled toa transfer assembly, and wherein the transfer assembly is mechanicallylinked to a first slider and a second slider such that rotation of theknob moves the pin extending from one of the first slider and the secondslider in to or out of the arcuate cutout.
 4. The desk system of claim1, wherein the main component further has one or more arc-shapedopenings for a fastener to extend therethrough to rotatably secure themain component to the desk top, and wherein the arc-shaped openings arelocated upon the main component to facilitate rotation of the desk topindependent of the main component.
 5. The desk system of claim 1 furthercomprising an engagement mechanism having a T-knob, wherein a baseportion of the main component defines a first notch and a second notch,and wherein the desk top and the main component are arranged with oneanother so the desk top is oriented in the landscape position when theT-knob is inserted into the first notch and so the desk top is orientedin the easel position when the T-knob is inserted into the second notch.6. The desk system of claim 1 further comprising a pair of wheelassemblies, wherein each of the pair of wheel assemblies is mounted forrotation to one of the support members of the first and second elongatemembers.
 7. The desk system of claim 6, wherein each of the pair ofwheel assemblies includes a base component for securing to one of thesupport members, an intermediate component including a base portionhaving flaps, and a wheel mounted to the intermediate component forrotation upon an underlying surface, and wherein each of the flapsincludes a lip for gripping an edge of the base component to secure theintermediate component to the base component.
 8. A pivot assembly for areconfigurable desk comprising: a main component including a baseportion for securing to an underside of a desk top for rotation of thedesk top, a pair of extensions each extending from the base portion andeach including a circular portion defining an arcuate channel havingcircular cutouts open to one another; and a lock mechanism including amoveable pin for insertion in to and retraction out of the arcuatechannel to retain the pivot assembly in at least first and secondpositions, wherein the main component and the lock mechanism arearranged with a column assembly of the reconfigurable desk such thatretention of the pivot assembly in the first position orients the desktop in a horizontal orientation relative to an underlying surface andretention of the pivot assembly in the second position orients the desktop in a substantially upright orientation relative to the underlyingsurface.
 9. The pivot assembly of claim 8, wherein the base portion ofthe main component defines first and second notches for receiving aT-knob of an engagement mechanism mounted to the desk top to retain thedesk top in one of a landscape position and an easel position.
 10. Thepivot assembly of claim 8, wherein the lock mechanism further includes afirst slider, a second slider, and a spring disposed therebetween, andwherein the moveable pin extends from one of the first slider and thesecond slider and the spring is biased to push the moveable pin in tothe arcuate channel.
 11. The pivot assembly of claim 10, wherein thelock mechanism further includes a knob mechanically linked to a transferassembly, and wherein the transfer assembly is mechanically linked tothe first slider and the second slider such that rotation of the knobdirects lateral translation of the first slider and the second slider toinsert or retract the moveable pin from the arcuate channel.
 12. Thepivot assembly of claim 8, wherein the desk top defines a top surface, aside surface, and a groove in the side surface extending about at leasta portion of a perimeter of the desk top sized to receive one or morefasteners of one or more corresponding components such that the one ormore components do not extend over the top surface in at least anupright position.
 13. The pivot assembly of claim 8, wherein a baseportion of the main component defines one or more arc-shaped openings,wherein each of the one or more arc-shaped openings is sized for afastener to extend therethrough to rotatably secure the desk top to themain component such that the desk top may rotate independent of the maincomponent.
 14. A reconfigurable desk system comprising: a supportstructure having first and second elongate members for at leastpartially resting upon an underlying surface; a column having a firstend mounted to one of the first and second elongate members and a secondend; a pivot assembly mounted to the column, cooperable with a desk topto rotate the desk top about an axis normal thereto, and arranged withthe desk top to transition the desk top between a substantiallyhorizontal position relative to the underlying surface and asubstantially upright position relative to the underlying surface; aseat assembly mounted to the support structure to position a userproximate the desk top; and first and second wheel assemblies eachmounted to a separate end of one of the first and second elongatemembers for rotation upon the underlying surface.
 15. The desk system ofclaim 14, wherein each of the first and second wheel assembliescomprises: a base component sized for mounting to the separate end ofone of the first and second elongate members; a first intermediatecomponent defining a through-hole sized for receiving a portion of thebase component; a second intermediate component including a base portionfor insertion within the through-hole of the first intermediatecomponent and including a first ledge; a third intermediate componentincluding a second ledge aligned with the first ledge to define achannel therebetween; a wheel secured to the third intermediatecomponent and sized for disposal within the channel; and a cap havingone or more mounts secured to the second intermediate component suchthat the third intermediate component and the wheel may rotate freely asa single component about the mounts.
 16. The desk system of claim 15,wherein each of the first and second wheel assemblies further comprisesone or more rollers each mounted for rotation about one of the one ormore mounts and extending from the cap for contact with an inner surfaceof the third intermediate component such that the third intermediatecomponent freely rotates upon the rollers.
 17. The desk system of claim15, wherein the base portion of the second intermediate componentincludes flaps each having a lip for gripping an edge of the basecomponent to secure the second intermediate component to the basecomponent.
 18. The desk system of claim 14, wherein the desk top definesa top surface, a side surface, and a groove in the side surfaceextending about at least a portion of a perimeter of the desk top sizedto receive one or more fasteners of one or more corresponding componentssuch that the one or more components do not extend over the top surfacein at least an upright position.
 19. The desk system of claim 14,wherein each of the first and second wheel assemblies is arranged withthe first and second elongate members so that the first and second wheelassemblies rotate upon the underlying surface when a user grasps andpulls the desk system by one of the first and second elongate members.